Abstract: A distributed sensor network is provided that comprises an existing electrical system infrastructure having a plurality of nodes and providing a source of power; and a plurality of sensors. Each sensor is associated with one of the nodes in the infrastructure. In addition, each sensor obtains power from the source of power and generates sensor information regarding one or more sensed conditions that are independent of the existing electrical system infrastructure. Among other alternatives, existing electrical system infrastructure can also be used to provide a communication connection between each of the plurality of nodes and at least one central node.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for evaluating tread depth on at least one tire. One or more laser scanners are positioned at an offset position from a tire path of the at least one tire. A profile of the at least one tire is obtained and the tread depth is determined from the profile. Additional information, such as identifying information and mileage information, can optionally be obtained from the at least one tire.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for evaluating tread depth on at least one tire. One or more laser scanners are positioned at an offset position from a tire path of the at least one tire. A profile of the at least one tire is obtained and the tread depth is determined from the profile. Additional information, such as identifying information and mileage information, can optionally be obtained from the at least one tire.

Abstract: A ventilation cooling system for a dynamoelectric machine is disclosed, which provides improved cooling efficiency and reduction in windage loss. A first stream of cooling gas is directed into the spider of the machine and transversely through ventilation ducts in the rotor, across the gap, then through corresponding ducts in the stator. A further stream of cooling gas is drawn in between the spider and a shroud which extends inwardly transversely from the stator. This further stream is directed downwardly between the poles of the rotor and then transversely through the gap and stator in conjunction with the first stream.

Abstract: A slot closure arrangement for closing the slot opening of slots in the stator of a dynamoelectric machine and for providing a restraining force against conductors in the slot. The slots have opposing notches on opposite sides of the slot adjacent the slot opening. A flat rectangular spring member is placed in the slot opening with the opposite edges of the flat spring member each terminating in one of the opposing notches. A pair of wedges with complementary tapered surfaces is inserted between the spring member and the surface of the conductor in the slot adjacent and facing the slot opening. The wedges are advanced one over the other to increase the overall thickness. The surface of the wedge engaging the spring member has a thickness at the center greater than the thickness at the edges, and the center presses the spring member outwardly when the wedges are advanced, deforming the spring member which then provides a force through the wedges against the conductor in the slot.

Abstract: A slot closure arrangement for closing the slot opening of slots in the stator of a dynamoelectric machine and for providing a restraining force against conductors in the slot. The slots have opposing notches on opposite sides of the slot adjacent the slot opening. A flat rectangular spring member is placed in the slot opening with the opposite edges of the flat spring member each terminating in one of the opposing notches. A pair of wedges with complementary tapered surfaces is inserted between the spring member and the surface of the conductor in the slot adjacent and facing the slot opening. The wedges are advanced one over the other to increase the overall thickness. The surface of the wedge engaging the spring member has a thickness at the center greater than the thickness at the edges, and the center presses the spring member outwardly when the wedges are advanced, deforming the spring member, which then provides a force through the wedges against the conductor in the slot.

Abstract: Apparatus for withdrawing the rotor from the stator in a bulb-type generator makes the rotor and the inner portion of the stator accessible for repair or maintenance without having to disassemble the housing and stator. A pair of detachable beams are placed in the housing when the rotor is stationary so they extend through holes provided in the rotor above the shaft on which the rotor turns. The beams are conveniently mounted to the upper stay tower structure at their downstream end, and to the housing at their upstream end. An additional support member may be used between the beams and the bottom of the housing at the upstream end of the beams. Shoes which slidably engage the beam are placed between the beam and the rotor to support the rotor. Preferably the shoes include a hydraulically operated piston which can be extended to ensure positive engagement with the beam. The rotor has an inner ring which is bolted to a driving disc on the shaft.